Knight, L (2024) Contexts & Complexities: The Value of Realist Approaches in Business & Management Evaluation Research. In: British Academy of Management 2024 Conference Proceedings . (BAM2024 Conference, 2nd Sept - 6th Sept 2024, Nottingham Trent University).

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Abstract

Evaluation research focuses on generating information through systematic inquiry to inform decision-making or practice development; this real-world focus can be considered applied research (Barker et al., 2002, p.198; Kellaghan, 2010). While providing valuable insights, traditional evaluation methods (such as process or outcome evaluations) often fall short of capturing the complexities and contexts that characterise and influence organisational dynamics. Thus, limiting the ability of organisations to identify, adjust and respond to challenges. Given that business and management environments are often characterised by complexity and change, this paper explores the potential of realist evaluation in examining business and management practices, outlining the value of this methodology and emphasising its ability to contextualise and navigate complex phenomena. The paper explores the foundational principles of realist evaluation, its methodological framework, and, most importantly, examines its potential to enrich our understanding of organisational phenomena, concluding that realist evaluation does not merely add to the research toolkit but rather enhances our capacity to generate insights that are both theoretically and practically relevant.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HF Commerce > HF5001 Business
Divisions:	Liverpool Business School
Publisher:	British Academy of Management
SWORD Depositor:	A Symplectic
Date Deposited:	11 Sep 2024 13:20
Last Modified:	10 Oct 2024 14:56
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/24059

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